You need to ask yourself, foremost, if you have the time, money, patience, and space for a dog. Keep in mind that dogs require regular vet care, daily excercise, a crate, lots of toys, good food (nothing from Walmart...), and lots of attention. They also need TRAINING. All of that requires time and money. Are you prepared to dive into that and be a responsible owner for the rest of the dogs' life (which can be 15+ years!)? If it sounds too overwhelming, rethink your plans and consider a different animal.
That said...Write down what kind of dog you want. Do you want a dog with long hair? Do you want a dog that doesn't shed a whole lot? Do you want a lazy dog or one that has tons of energy? Do you want a big dog or a small dog? Do you want a dog that's likely to be protective of you and your home, or do you want a happy-go-lucky dog that loves everyone?
Once you've decided on the traits you want, go to www.akc.org and see what breed matches your 'wants'. THEN go to www.petfinder.com and see if there are any for adoption in your area. Adult dogs are GREAT to start out with because you already know what their habits and such are. You can get a purebred dog much cheaper than buying a puppy, and you don't have to go through the puppy stage---and you're saving that adult dogs' life. What's better than that? You can also look into mixes of the breeds you want...be careful with mixes and know what they're mixed with because they can turn out like EITHER breed they're mixed with. If it's a mix of two breeds you want, then it should be the perfect match for you!
If you can't find what you want at PetFinder, seek out a RESPONSIBLE and REPUTABLE breeder via akc.org. Do NOT buy from a Pet store or people who advertise in the newspaper, Craigslist, and so on. Reputable breeders do not generally advertise their puppies and so you'll need to contact them about availablility. They may have a waiting list but it is worth it---you'll save tons of money getting a well-bred dog from a reputable breeder than buying a cheaper one from someone who has registered purebreds, but didn't breed to better the breed, OR do the necessary medical testing to ensure their puppies are structurally sound and free of genetic diseases/deformities.
2006-09-14 13:05:30
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answer #1
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answered by strayd0g 3
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you need to research and see what dog would be good for you.
what do you want in a dog, dogs take alot of responsibilty
you need to bring them in to the vet for vaccines, physical exams,
and neutering. you need to do alot of research on different types of dogs if you want an easily trainable dog that will obey your every command don't choose a beagle. small dogs can be yappy
when your dog is in the chewing stage it will chew on anything
including your clothes.experiance! you will need to get it into a good obediance class so you will have a well trained dog that you can be proud of. housetraining in a puppy can be frustrating and requires understanding and patience. puppies aren't for everyone
and you may be better off with an older dog.i don't know what your like so i can't recomend a certain dog breed to you.libraries
have books about dog breeds. you will need a food and water bowl, lightweight leash if you are getting a puppy. soft collar,
a bag of food that the dog is used to a crate is helpful as it gives the puppy or dog a place of its own to go to. find a good vet in your area.you might want to ask for references when you call the vet.nobody can tell you what type of dog to get because we all have different tastes. i have a beagle and i love her very much.
but i can't say if it's the right breed for you. do alot of research and
don't buy on impulse. one more thing. find a good breeder in your
area your local vet will probably know of some dogs from good breeders may charge a little more but they can give you very helpful information on the dog you are getting.if you do your research and pick out the right breed of dog you will be a happy owner and you will have a happy healthy dog.
2006-09-14 13:42:12
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answer #2
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answered by becca 2
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Depends on how much space you have and where you will be walking it. Cramming a malamute into a small apartment is a poor idea, having a greyhound in the city where you cannot let it run is cruel, etc. First you have to decide what size you can handle both personally and space-wise. Remember that larger dogs do require more food and larger pooper-scoopers. Small dogs, however, can be very yippy and very annoying if you live close to your neighbors. Unless you live on a farm avoid beagles - great dogs but they howl - loudly. Have a lot of stairs, no dachunds. Shih Tzu's are very good dogs, just a bit pricy. Chinese Pugs are loveable but smelly - be prepared to bathe the dog a lot.
2006-09-14 13:06:29
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answer #3
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answered by smgray99 7
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Try to watch some dog shows and listen when they describe the dogs and apply it to your lifestyle. Then visit the club pages of dog breeds that you are interested in. From there, talk to a reputable breeder or breed rescue person about it.
Most importantly, be honest about your situation. If you can't handle potty issues, then a puppy or a toy breed will not be right for you. If you are a light sleeper, then dogs with nasal issues won't be right for you; pugs, english bulldogs, french bulldogs, etc. If you don't have a yard or several hours a day to commit to play, then a herding dogs may not be right for you. If you want a dog that will be well trained, then a sighthound won't be for you. If you don't want a barky dog, then many terriers, toys, and protective dogs won't be for you. If you don't want to clean up hair, then a long haired dog (Afghan), a double coated dog (Sheltie, Husky, etc), or a constantly shedding dog (Dalmation, possibly lab) won't be right for you.
Or, visit the website of a no-kill shelter and meet a dog that seems to fit your needs. Remember, 25%-40% of dogs that come into shelters are purebreds. : )
And as mentioned, NEVER buy from a pet store or a backyard/hobby breeder. You want to only buy from someone who is dedicated to the breed and the welfare of it. Please, NEVER buy one of those trendy designer dogs!
And don't forget, to have $1000 accessible for any medical needs for your dog and to get him/her altered as soon as possible. : )
2006-09-14 13:06:26
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answer #4
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answered by Anonymous
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Dogs are all lovable in different ways" beagles are loyal anf friendly, german sheperds energetic and good guard dogs. It is your choice. When you pick it out, make sure you look at it and you absolutely fall in love with it, no matter what it looks like. The vet will tell you all you need to know.
2006-09-14 12:58:24
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answer #5
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answered by Princess in PInk 1
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type in "dog breed selector" Several questionnaires will come up. They will ask you about your lifestyle and preferences. This should give you a good idea about the breed good for you. Whatever you do, dont go to a pet shop or a backyard breeder. Happy Hunting!!!!
2006-09-14 13:00:48
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answer #6
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answered by Nurse Autumn Intactivist NFP 6
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tell me if you want a big, medium or small dog and any other details about yourd dog. Like how much money you can spend on it and I'll give u a perfect dog to get
email me at jduch120@yahoo.com
2006-09-14 12:58:50
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answer #7
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answered by Anonymous
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Chihuahuas are my favorite. They are small, cute, cuddly, loving and loveable. They want to be by your side and please you.
2006-09-14 13:11:54
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answer #8
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answered by Anonymous
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